How to Become a Certified Teacher in California
Teachers can make a positive impact on California's youth. Becoming a certified teacher in California takes several years, but you will have a stable and invigorating career while contributing to the community. You'll need to decide at what level you want to teach and then pursue a course of study that leads to credentials for that level.
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Instructions
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Becoming a Credentialed Teacher in California
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Decide what type of student you want to teach.This lets you know what credential type you need. In California, elementary school teachers must earn a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. High school teachers need a Single Subject Credential. Special education teachers require an Education Specialist Instruction Credential.
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Complete an accredited baccalaureate program. If you're interested in secondary school teaching, get a degree in the subject you want to teach. Prospective elementary school teachers should choose a Liberal Studies degree. Earning a degree takes a minimum of four years.
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Meet the basic skills requirement. You have several options for meeting the skills requirement. Pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), which assesses basic math, reading and writing skills. Or, pass the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET). This tests multiple subjects and basic writing skills. Another option is the CSU Early Assessment Program or Placement Examination. Both tests are administered by the California State University system. Out-of-state exams are also acceptable.
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Complete a professional teacher preparation program. Contact the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for approved preparation programs in your area. Each preparation program has its own completion requirements. However, student teaching is required for all programs. As a student teacher, you will teach a class under the mentorship of a credentialed teacher. The teacher preparation program advises you on placement for student teaching.
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Complete a U.S. Constitution and computer education college course. This step applies to Multiple Subject Teaching Credential applicants. Contact CTC or your teacher preparation program for acceptable courses.
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Apply for a teaching credential. Forms are available at the CTC website. Applications can be completed on the CTC website or by mail. Fingerprinting through LiveScan is required to complete the application. Processing fees for LiveScan and credential processing apply.
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Tips & Warnings
Join an association such as the Student California Teachers Association for networking opportunities, credentialing assistance and educational workshops
California credentialing requirements can change at any time. Stay updated by referencing the CTC website regularly.
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Resources
- Photo Credit woman and a teacher at seminar image by Dmitry Goygel-Sokol from Fotolia.com
